briggs engine 18 hp ohv

[matt p]

I have a 2005 toro timecutter with a briggs engine it seems like it is pressuring up the whole engine, it blows some oil out of the filler tube,into carb,valve cover. it is 18 hp ohv vertical shaft engine. it starts and runs well. what do you guys think? rings,valves,head gasket
 

[Anon]

Probably head gasket broke between cylinder and lifter valley.
 

[SuperABen]

A simple check is whether you have too much oil. That would cause your problem.

Piston rings/head gasket/valves can be diagnosed collectively with a compression test. The hillbilly test is simple: pull a spark plug and block the hole with your thumb. Good compression will blow your thumb off the hole when the engine spins.

If all else works as it should, you've probably got a clogged crankcase breather. Without knowing the exact engine, I can't tell you for sure where it is: 18 horse probably connects to the air filter and runs down to the engine block/valve cover.

Ben W. in VA
OldPathsEquipment.com
 

[matt p]

Hi guys the motor is briggs 500cc 18hp Intec oil level is good I have to add to keep it up. the crankcase breather is clear I had to clean it in the fall thanks
 

[t.r.k.]

You don't say if this is a single cyl. or a twin.

About the only other thing besides 1. just being worn out and 2. the crankcase breather that would cause it to blow oil is a blown head gasket.

On Briggs single cylinders, the head gaskets tend to blow into the pushrod gallery, and vent into the crankcase. You can't tell there is a problem from the outside and the unit usually will still run.

Does this unit have a history of backfiring when the switch is cut off? That can cause a blown head gasket. If so, best to keep the throttle up and just turn the switch off.